What is the Parkinson's Disease Nursing Service

The Parkinson’s Disease Nursing Service has been established to help meet the needs of people living with Parkinson’s disease, their spouses and care givers. The Service is provided by two Clinical Nurse Consultants who provide specialist nursing advice, education and support for people affected by Parkinson’s disease and their Health Care Professionals. The aim of the Service is to enhance the quality of life and self-management of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.

A nursing assessment provides the basis for ongoing care and is carried out on the first consultation. This assessment often addresses questions you may have regarding the condition and its treatment. The Parkinson’s Nurse may suggest referral to additional health professionals and services as required and can support you with accessing services such as NDIS or My Aged Care.

The Service is provided by the Northern NSW Local Health District and is supported by Parkinson’s NSW for people living with Parkinson’s Disease on the North Coast of NSW.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition, which is characterised by both motor (movement) and non-motor symptoms. The medical diagnosis is based on symptoms because there is no definitive medical or imaging tests which diagnose Parkinson’s Disease.

Diagnosis is based on the presence of four cardinal symptoms which are:

• Tremor
• Muscle rigidity (stiffness)
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Postural instability (balance difficulties)

There are associated non-motor symptoms that impact the person with Parkinson’s, such as speech and swallowing problems, constipation, sleep disturbance, fatigue, apathy, anxiety and depression. There are treatments, strategies and support available to assist people living with Parkinson’s manage these symptoms.

Referral Process

NNSWLHD PDNS Referral Form

People with Parkinson’s can access the Parkinson’s Disease Nursing Service via a referral form completed by their Specialist, GP or Health Care Professional and sent to the email or fax below:

Email: NNSWLHD-ParkinsonsNursingService@health.nsw.gov.au
Fax: 02 6620 6348

Where will I see the Parkinson's Nurse?

Clients can be seen in a variety of settings:

• In a clinic
• At home
• In hospital

How often will I be seen?

After initial assessment, follow up appointments are based on the requirements of the client and their caregiver. Each person using the service has differing needs so there is no predetermined frequency of visits. If you require an appointment sooner than the one given, please contact the Parkinson’s Disease Nursing Service.

Will my Doctor and other health professionals be aware that I have seen the nurse?

Yes. With your consent, your GP, treating medical specialist and other health professionals involved in your treatment may receive a report based on the nursing assessment carried out by the Parkinson’s Nurse.

Do I need to be a participant of a Parkinson's Support Group to access this service?

No, participation in a Support Group is not required to access this Service. However, we do strongly recommend Support Groups for people living with Parkinson’s as a source of peer support, useful information and increased social and community access opportunities.

Clients who are unwell

In this Service we do not provide emergency services. If you are concerned about yourself or the person you care for, please contact the ambulance service on 000 for emergencies and your local GP for other medical advice.